FOOT and Mouth and the subsequent closure of the Hills had a major effect on hotels, bed and breakfast establishments and local businesses, therefore a presentation on "Realising the Value of the Hills" was an opportunity to understand how others had successfully managed visitors to the advantage of the environment and the local economy.

The Malvern Hills are a principal attraction for visitors and a pleasure to many residents, yet very little money from the visitor finds its way back towards helping manage the facilities. Visitor management is not solely the responsibility of any one organisation. The Conservators are keen to make improvements in the lay-out of car parks as well as working with the county councils to reduce road congestion. Directing walkers to lesser used paths away from sensitive areas and repairs to eroded footpaths are of course a high priority for the Conservators.

The proposed partnership was formed following a request from the board of the Conservators to obtain greater support from Worcestershire County Council.

By working together with other groups with a common interest in the Malvern area we are already attracting grants from national sources and it is likely that projects such as this could attract European money, thus reducing the burden on the local council tax payer.

Despite increases in standards of care, the levy has kept in line with inflation at £26 per year on the Council Tax (50p per week on a D band property).

The proposed partnership will forge links with the community in order to "Realise the Value of the Hills" as an enjoyable experience for us all which needs protecting and investing in for the future.

IAN J S ROWAT, Director, Malvern Hills Conservators, Grange Road, Malvern.